INCENTIVES FOR TEACHING PSYCHIATRY

A questionnaire was sent to chairs and faculty in 137 academic departm ents of psychiatry regarding the methods used to promote teaching and their perceived value. The incentives most often used included promoti on and retention, nomination to committees, and peer recognition. Leas t often used were bonuses and a designated teachers' career track. Cha irs and their faculty often disagreed as to whether some incentives we re being used at all. Recognition of teaching excellence was generally most highly valued as a useful incentive. Clarification of the nature and purpose of teaching incentives would likely improve their effecti veness.